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Museum Mission—Strategic Plan

In 1993, the Nelson-Atkins initiated an ambitious self-study and long-range planning project. For inspiration and guidance, the Museum interviewed members of the community, from a broad spectrum of interests and experiences.

Four major ideas emerged as crucial to the life of the organization:

More of the permanent collection on view.

Increased space for special exhibitions.

An expanded educational program.

More parking.

At the heart of each of these expressed desires was one underlying theme: the need for more physical space.

The Strategic Plan was the springboard for the Museum’s expansion project: a capital campaign to raise private and corporate monies; a worldwide search for an architect; and finally that first turning of earth that marked the Nelson-Atkins’ exciting new journey.